Pulseless electrical activity PEA
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Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA): Causes, Symptoms, and Management
Understanding PEA
Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA) is a non-shockable cardiac rhythm that requires attention and intervention. To comprehend PEA, consider the heart's operation as a combination of electrical conduction and muscular activity working in harmony.
Disruption in Electrical-Muscular Coordination
In normal circumstances, the heart's electrical conduction system triggers muscle contractions. However, situations like chest trauma leading to blood accumulation in the pericardial sac can disrupt this coordination. In such cases, the electrical conduction system functions correctly, but the muscle can't contract effectively due to the constriction caused by the tamponade.
Treatment Approach
Unlike shockable rhythms, PEA cannot be corrected with defibrillation. Instead, the focus shifts to high-quality CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and addressing the underlying cause of PEA. Effective CPR is crucial in maintaining blood circulation, while identifying and managing the root cause is essential for improving the patient's chances of recovery.